The development and validation of a Chinese version of the Illness Attitude Scales: an investigation of university students.
Int J Behav Med 2014;
21:638-45. [PMID:
24500642 DOI:
10.1007/s12529-014-9391-9]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND
The Illness Attitude Scales (IAS) are considered as one of the most suitable instruments to screen hypochondriasis.
PURPOSE
Whether it has cross-cultural validity in China remains to be determined.
METHODS
In Chinese university students (141 women and 141 men), we have administered the IAS, the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire (ZKPQ), and the Plutchik-van Praag Depression Inventory (PVP).
RESULTS
For the first time in Chinese culture, we have identified a four-factor structure of the IAS: patho-thanatophobia, symptom effect, treatment seeking, and hypochondriacal belief. Women scored significantly higher on IAS patho-thanatophobia and treatment seeking, on ZKPQ neuroticism-anxiety and activity, and on PVP than men did. The neuroticism-anxiety was significantly correlated with patho-thanatophobia and symptom effect, and PVP was positively correlated with symptom effect in women. Neuroticism-anxiety was significantly correlated with patho-thanatophobia, and impulsive sensation seeking and activity were significantly correlated with symptom effect in men.
CONCLUSION
In Chinese students, we have found a stable four-factor IAS structure.
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